Kia ora everyone!
Jaden Movold here, back again, to share exciting news and updates on my life as a wheelchair racer, university student, Medifab/Spex ambassador, and passionate advocate for inclusivity. The past few months have been a whirlwind of competition, travel, personal growth, and continued dedication to my community.
I’m honoured to be an ambassador for organisations that align with my values and strive to create a more equitable world. These roles provide me with a platform to raise awareness about disability issues, inspire others to embrace inclusivity and contribute to meaningful social change. Witnessing the positive impact of these efforts firsthand fuels my determination to keep pushing for progress and creating a more inclusive society for everyone. Late last year, I was fortunate to be announced as the New Starship Foundation Ambassador, a role that means a lot to me, considering spending much of my life at Starship.
2024 started with strong performances in Canberra in January, racing at the Summer Down Under Wheelchair Racing Series and the ACT Athletics Championships. At the ACT Champs I came home with 3 silvers and 1 gold medal. I then embarked on a thrilling journey to the United Arab Emirates in February, where I competed in two prestigious events: the Sharjah 12th International Open Athletics Meeting and the Khorfakkan 1st WPA-International Meeting. While achieving podium finishes and a multitude of personal bests may not have been the outcome this time, the invaluable lessons learned and the enriching experience gained continue to fuel my passion and propel me forward.
Competing against world-class athletes in the UAE presented unique challenges and pushed me to adapt my racing strategies. The Sharjah meeting offered a diverse range of events, allowing me to test my skills on the track. In Khorfakkan, being on a slower track further enhanced my mental and physical resilience. While the desired results may not have materialized on the day, the experience gained from these diverse competitions is invaluable and will undoubtedly contribute to my future athletic endeavours.
My journey extends far beyond the racetrack. These past months have been filled with self-discovery, growth, and the continued pursuit of making a positive impact in my community. I actively participate in various committees, using my voice to champion accessibility and inclusivity for people with disabilities. My involvement allows me to connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate on important initiatives, and advocate for systemic change.
As I look ahead, I’m not only excited to continue pushing my limits in the racing world, but also to embark on a new academic adventure. I’m thrilled to be starting my third year at AUT University, majoring in Psychology. This journey into the fascinating world of human behaviour aligns perfectly with my passion for helping others and advocating for inclusivity. I believe the knowledge and skills gained from my studies will further empower me to contribute meaningfully to my community and advocate for positive change.
Juggling the demands of training, racing, university studies, and community work can be challenging, but it’s a challenge I’m ready to continue to embrace. I’m confident that the time management skills honed through my athletic endeavours will serve me well in this unfolding chapter. I’m also grateful for the support of my family, friends, and mentors, who continue to encourage me and fuel my determination to succeed in all aspects of my life.
I’m energized and motivated to keep pushing my limits, both on the track and in the academic sphere. I’m excited to share my continued journey with you all, so stay tuned for updates on my training progress, upcoming races, academic endeavours, community work as well as any other exciting opportunity that comes my way. I’m always eager to connect and learn from others who share a passion for inclusivity and making a difference in the world.
Ngā mihi,
Jaden Movold